Pregnant and in College: How to Face the Pressure and Stay in Recovery

Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC, Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope
Bringing a new life into the world is a miracle in itself, and the process of pregnancy is a journey that comes with many joys and challenges.  Some women may find that they become pregnant unintentionally or through a situation that was not planned.  For a woman in college who is enduring many transitions, becoming pregnant unexpectedly can bring about many obstacles, challenges, and questions.

Finding Support

If you have become pregnant during your time and college and are in recovery from an eating disorder, know that there is help and support available for you.  You likely have numerous questions going through your mind and perhaps fears and doubts about your situation.  It is crucial to seek out help as early as possible and to not allow yourself to isolate during a time that might feel overwhelming.

Whether your pregnancy was planned or not, you will need prenatal care for yourself and your baby.  If you do not have health insurance or are unsure where to go, begin by checking with your campus wellness center.  Even if there is not specialized care available on campus, your wellness center can likely refer you to community clinics within your area that can help ensure that you are getting the care you need during your pregnancy.  Reestablishing therapy is also a proactive step during any life transition while in recovery.  Pregnancy often brings many emotions, and having a trusted therapist that you feel comfortable processing with can help you maintain your recovery, even during a tremulous time of your life.

Work with a Counselor

You can also work with a college counselor to figure out how to best work your schedule in light of the new changes you may be anticipating.  Many schools offer the option to take classes part-time, which may allow you to finish your degree in a timely matter.  You may also be able to take a leave of absence if necessary to care for your baby after birth.

Whatever situation you may find yourself in, it is important to know that there is hope for you and your growing baby.  Reaching out for support and utilizing the resources that are available to you can help ensure that you are both healthy and that your efforts in recovery are upheld as well.

Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!

Are you aware of any resources on your college campus that help support a woman during pregnancy?  How might these resources also help enable a woman to stay focused in her recovery?

The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of eating disorders.  These are not necessarily the views of Eating Disorder Hope, but an effort to offer a discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.  We at Eating Disorder Hope understand that eating disorders result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors.  If you or a loved one are suffering from an eating disorder, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.

Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on August 28, 2015. Published on EatingDisorderHope.com